I know. I have just never really had to do it. This year i had some RGB.. and used crimp caps to get by. Last summer, some major events precluded me from focusing many hours to do a good job on the installation.

Of course it was better than my first attempt to fix wires using marr connectors.

Both solutions work in a pinch, but I had a bad string of the ip67 nodes and was on the roof every other night splicing. If I had to pull my solder iron up there it would be even more of a pain as I don't have 120v easy access. I of course put a dab of silicon in the ends and used liquid tape and then electrical tape on top of it....all to protect from the elements.

A very good example of the WRONG way to do it. heat shrink tubing, some solder and a bit of patience and LOTS of practice (or the other way around - patience is king - but it's NOT my strong suit) is definitely the RIGHT way!!

I would have to say that the ATX board has to be just about the perfect project to learn soldering/building. The key is a decent iron. This is mine and it gave me the confidence I needed to do this kinda stuff. http://www.circuitspecialists.com/csi-station1a.html Previously my soldering experience was very much limited and many times unsuccessful.

I got this in a really cheap soldering kit for Christmas years ago and it has proven immensely helpful for splicing nodes. http://www.harborfreight.com/helping-hands-319.html I use 1 clamp to hold a wire and freehand the other. I think some other guys have built jigs... Might be prudent to find out other's methods so we can learn more?

Well, the pre built adapters are for 24 pin molex ATX connectors. I have a 20 pin connector and then the separate 4 pin connector (both of which connected to the mamaboard ). Walla.. that = 24! (snarky mode off now) .

The ATX connector on the adapter will accept both the 20 and 24 pin power connector. The 24 pin version just added more 12v wires and the keying of the 24 pin female connector can handle any PC supply. This allows you to use old and new power supplies with it.

The older supplies can be very useful in smaller power requirement projects and for bench testing.